On Wednesday 4 September at 11.40am, the ARTE channel will broadcast the documentary Albert Schweitzer: the man behind the myth. This previously unseen film looks back at the life of the Alsatian doctor, theologian and Nobel Peace Prize winner, while offering a critical re-examination of his legacy and highlighting the essential role played by his wife, Hélène Schweitzer.
A documentary dedicated to Albert Schweitzer
A universal figure of the 20th century, Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965) is known for his humanitarian work and for founding the Lambaréné hospital in Gabon in 1913. A defender of the ethic of ‘respect for life’ and an opponent of nationalism and nuclear weapons, he had a profound impact on the history of humanitarian ideas and practices.
The documentary broadcast on ARTE explores his work, but also his contradictions, placing Schweitzer’s career in the colonial context of his time.
The unknown role of Hélène Schweitzer
Often overshadowed by her husband’s fame, Hélène Schweitzer appears in this film as a key figure. A nurse, she played an active role in founding and managing the hospital in Lambaréné. When her health forced her to remain in Europe after the First World War, she took charge of logistics, supplies and finances, ensuring the continuity of the work.Witho
ut her commitment, the Lambaréné hospital would not have been able to survive. This documentary thus helps to restore Hélène to her rightful place in history.
Rediscovering Albert Schweitzer and Hélène Schweitzer
By questioning the Schweitzer myth, placing his actions in a historical perspective and highlighting his collaborators, this documentary offers a fresh and balanced look at a personality who was as admired as he was controversial.
👉 Broadcast on 4 September 2025 at 11:40 a.m. on ARTE. The documentary will also be available for replay on the ARTE website (in french).